Manny Pacquiao Eyeing Comeback Fight for WBC Welterweight Title
Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao is in serious negotiations to make his long-awaited return to the ring, eyeing a bout for the WBC welterweight title against rising star Mario Barrios. The likely date for the high-profile showdown is set for September at either the MGM Grand or T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Confirming reports from ESPN, boxing officials connected to the deal revealed that eight-division champion Pacquiao is keen to lace up his gloves for the first time in three years. If the agreement is finalized, it would mark Pacquiao’s pursuit of a staggering fifth welterweight world title.
Barrios Poised for Title Shot
Barrios, a former 140-pound WBA champion, is expected to be elevated to the full WBC welterweight champion after the sanctioning body recently named unbeaten Terence Crawford as the division’s champion in recess. The 29-year-old Texan (29-2, 18 KOs) claimed the WBC interim title in May with a unanimous decision victory over Fabian Maidana, knocking his opponent down in the third round.
“Despite struggling against his most high-profile opponents, including losses to Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman, Barrios remains confident in his ability to dethrone the legendary Pacquiao.”
The young champion impressed last year with a dominant performance over Yordenis Ugas, knocking him down twice.
Pacquiao Aims for Another Welterweight Crown
Pacquiao, 44, is coming off a narrow defeat to Ugas in his most recent outing in August 2021. The Filipino boxing icon, who had earlier expressed interest in facing welterweight contender Conor Benn, is now focused on reclaiming a world title once again.
Pacquiao’s advisor, Sean Gibbons, plans to visit the fighter in the Philippines by June 17 to finalize the agreement. The promotion feels “without a doubt” that Pacquiao can showcase his experience and skill to capture another welterweight crown.
This potential matchup between the legendary Pacquiao and the rising Barrios would undoubtedly generate significant buzz in the boxing world and provide fans with a thrilling clash of styles and generations.
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